Basic Study Skills: Discipline, Motivation and Planning

Darlington is a college-preparatory school and during our students' four years in Upper School, they learn many things that will assist them in college. Some acquire these skills early in the freshman year, but many struggle and do not acquire them until later. The skills that are important for success in college are the same skills that are required to be successful here. 

Self-discipline. Darlington offers many opportunities to get involved in fine arts, athletics and social events. Students must find the discipline needed to keep assignments from piling up. This might mean reading another page of history instead of going outside or hanging out in the student lounge. Self-discipline is a skill that will not happen overnight, but with a little effort students can establish it. 

Motivation. Motivation for learning must also be nurtured and developed. Students are always motivated for something, but the challenge is to develop a motivation for learning. 

Develop a plan. Students often have a hard time keeping track of assignments, games, events and social obligations. A good student must develop a schedule and adhere to his or her schedule. Weekly study time must be scheduled and good student should plan ahead to ensure that study time is not compromised by other obligations.

Develop appropriate learning strategies. During Lower and Middle School, students may be able to listen in class and look over the text the night before a test and still make excellent grades. Upper School study skills consist of creating a learning cycle of different ways to approach learning. If a student is struggling with learning strategies, Darlington’s Teaching and Learning Center will provide a consultation with the student to help him or her develop some learning techniques. 

Manage stress and anxiety. Many students feel pressure from parents, peers or from within to perform better. Sometimes this stress or anxiety can actually depress grades, which in turn causes more anxiety. There are many stress-reducing techniques and our counseling department can work with students to identify strategies that work best for them.

The academic skills our students learn at Darlington will assist them in their transition to college and beyond. Darlington provides a great environment that allows them to try different learning strategies and determine what works best for them. Teachers and learning specialists are available to assist in this regard. For more information, feel free to contact me or any of our learning specialists.